We didn’t realize how historic the Thunder’s performance was going to be on Saturday night. They pasted the Denver Nuggets 149-100 in a playoff game and broke all kinds of records doing it. The Thunder scored a staggering 87 points in the first half, an NBA playoff record. This explosive performance sparked them to a key Game 2 victory, evening their series at one game apiece.
Right from the start, the Thunder showcased their offensive firepower, outscoring 45-21 by the end of the first quarter. Over that stretch, they made a staggering 71.4% of their shot attempts. They even established their own franchise record by pouring in 45 points in a single quarter of a playoff game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge, scoring 34 points in just three quarters. As good as he was, shooting 11 of 13 from the field and making all 11 of his free throws.
The Thunder controlled the matchup from the opening tip. They were up 124-76 after three quarters and pushed their lead to a staggering 49 points. Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. On the flip side, eight players from the Thunder ended up scoring in double figures, shining a light on the team’s depth and versatility.
As the second quarter was ending, Chet Holmgren hit two free-throws with only one second remaining. That defining moment, the Thunder’s sweep of the Spurs, was emblematic of the franchise’s new-found power. The Thunder’s offensive strategy was evident as they executed well-coordinated plays. One such moment included a lob from Gilgeous-Alexander to Jalen Williams that extended their lead to 78-43.
The team’s ability to control the game and maintain their lead was a testament to their preparation and execution under pressure. They became the first home team to win a game in this season’s second round of the playoffs, marking history in two ways. This win provided great momentum as they proceeded into their series with the Nuggets.
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